The Republic of Ireland police have confirmed that they are investigating an alleged racist incident during the pre-season match between Manchester City and Limerick.

City full-back Gael Clichy claims that a banana was thrown onto the pitch during City's 4-0 win on Sunday, tweeting after the game: "How sad to see 'bananas thrown on the pitch' tonight... Knowing people around the world need food. #nowordsforthis."

The police, Gardai, will now work with stadium officials to investigate the incident, using CCTV footage to help them.

"The Gardai and stadium officials are reviewing the CCTV recordings to attempt to identify an individual involved in the throwing of an offensive object onto the playing field," read a statement released on behalf of Limerick FC and Thomond Park Stadium.

"Any individual identified as being involved in an incident of this nature will be banned from future attendance and the matter will be handed over to the Gardai.

"All those involved with the friendly game fully condemn all forms of unacceptable behaviour of this nature."

Clichy's claims come just days after Newcastle reported alleged racist abuse during their friendly against Dutch side ADO Den Haag.

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